All Aboard for the Holidays: 6 Christmas Markets to Visit with Amtrak Vacations

The holidays bring out the best in travel. Twinkling lights, the smell of spiced wine and roasted nuts, local artisans selling handmade gifts. It is the kind of festive atmosphere that feels even more enchanting when you arrive by train. With Amtrak Vacations, you can combine the ease of rail with the joy of holiday markets across the United States. No driving in winter weather, no last-minute hotel searches, just cosy journeys and magical memories.

Here are six Christmas markets that pair perfectly with an Amtrak Vacation.

1. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is iconic for a reason. Modelled after the traditional German markets, it is a wonderland of handcrafted ornaments, steaming mugs of mulled wine, bratwurst, and festive performances. All of this unfolds beneath the city’s twinkling skyline, creating a holiday setting unlike anywhere else in the Midwest.

Driving into Chicago in December can be stressful, from icy roads to expensive parking. With Amtrak Vacations, you step off the train just blocks away and check in to your hotel nearby. That means less hassle and more time soaking up the holiday magic.

2. New York City, New York

Few cities sparkle like New York during the holidays, and the Union Square Holiday Market is a highlight. More than 150 vendors fill the square with artisanal crafts, cosy knitwear, gourmet treats, and endless gift ideas. Grab a hot chocolate, stroll through the glowing pathways, and feel the festive buzz of Manhattan in full holiday swing.

Airports and holiday traffic can make visiting New York stressful. By train, you avoid security queues and delays, arriving directly in the heart of the city. With Amtrak Vacations, your hotel is arranged near the action so you can maximise your time in the market instead of dealing with logistics.

3. Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital takes on a special glow in December. The Georgetown Glow fills historic streets with sparkling light installations, while local holiday markets offer artisan goods, seasonal treats, and warm drinks. Strolling through Washington’s illuminated neighbourhoods feels like stepping into a festive snow globe.

For many visitors, navigating an unfamiliar city in winter weather is daunting. With Amtrak Vacations, your rail journey and hotel are seamlessly planned, leaving you free to enjoy the glow of the season without the stress of figuring it all out yourself.

4. Denver, Colorado

Set against the backdrop of the Rockies, Denver’s Christkindlmarket brings European holiday traditions to the American West. Picture wooden stalls selling handmade ornaments, steaming mugs of glühwein, live German music, and the crisp mountain air wrapping you in a festive embrace.

Driving mountain roads in winter can be risky and stressful. Rail travel gives you the scenery without the worry. With Amtrak Vacations, you enjoy snowy views from the train, arrive comfortably, and head straight to the holiday cheer waiting downtown.

5. Seattle, Washington

Seattle may be famous for rain, but during the holidays the city shines. Pike Place and other festive markets fill with local crafts, artisan food, glowing decorations, and plenty of warm coffee to keep the chill away. Add in waterfront views lit with holiday sparkle, and Seattle becomes one of the most charming places to visit in December.

Parking headaches, unpredictable weather, and long drives can take the joy out of holiday travel. Amtrak Vacations takes care of everything, from your train journey to your hotel, so you can focus on enjoying the festive atmosphere stress-free.

6. San Francisco, California

San Francisco offers a market with a creative twist: the Renegade Craft Fair. Instead of traditional stalls, you will find independent artisans selling jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and holiday décor. The city’s hills and waterfront glow with lights, giving the whole scene a unique West Coast festive vibe.

Some travellers worry that all holiday markets are the same, but San Francisco proves otherwise. With Amtrak Vacations arranging your train journey and accommodation, you can focus on finding original gifts and connecting with the artists behind them.

Why Let Amtrak Vacations Plan Your Holiday Getaway?

• Effortless Planning: Train tickets, hotels, and sightseeing arranged in one simple package.
• Comfort and Warmth: Spacious seating, cosy overnight trains, and city-centre hotels mean less stress and more enjoyment.
• Convenience: Skip airport queues, long drives, and parking hassles. Arrive in the heart of the city, close to the festivities.
• Authentic Experiences: Explore local crafts, seasonal foods, and markets that feel unique to each destination.
• Peace of Mind: Winter can bring unpredictable weather and travel delays. With Amtrak Vacations’ support, you can travel confidently knowing everything is handled.

Make This Holiday Season Unforgettable

Christmas markets are more than places to shop. They are experiences to savour: the laughter of friends, the glow of lights, the taste of warm cider, the sound of carollers drifting through the air. Travelling there by train makes those moments even more magical.

Let Amtrak Vacations create your perfect holiday getaway. From booking your train to arranging your hotel, every detail is covered so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the season.